“On the day of the incident a disagreement broke out between Joe and Lacey and during the ensuing fracas, Joe was stabbed once in the chest and tragically died at the scene.

“Lacey’s decision to use a knife during this incident resulted in catastrophic consequences and he will have to endure the punishment of his impulsive action.”

Mr Pearce’s family paid tribute to him after today’s sentencing.

They said: “Joe’s untimely death has left his whole family devastated.

“He was a much-loved son, father, brother, nephew and friend to so many people. No matter what the sentence is, it will never bring Joe back.

“We would like to thank the police and the CPS for their thorough investigation and also the homicide service and our family liaison officers for the support they have provided us over the past seven months.“